ASTM D7797-23 PDF

Overview

ASTM D7797-23 is the internationally recognized standard test method for the determination of fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) content in aviation turbine fuel using flow analysis by Fourier Transform Infrared (FA-FTIR) spectroscopy. This rapid screening method is designed to detect FAME, commonly known as biodiesel, which may inadvertently contaminate aviation fuels through shared transportation and storage systems with diesel fuel. The method is especially relevant due to increasing global mandates for biodiesel blending in automotive fuels, and it addresses industry-wide concerns about jet fuel purity and safety.

The standard covers determination of FAME concentrations within aviation turbine fuel (AVTUR) in the range of 10 mg/kg to 150 mg/kg. It employs FA-FTIR with partial least squares (PLS-1) data processing to provide a fast, reliable, and non-specialist-friendly approach for screening in the supply chain.

Key Topics

• Purpose and Significance
  • Addresses growing regulatory requirements for biodiesel use and associated risks of FAME contamination in jet fuel.
  • Ensures aviation turbine fuel meets strict quality and safety parameters.
• Test Method Scope
  • Utilizes flow-through FTIR spectroscopy to differentiate and quantify FAME content based on IR spectral absorbance near 1749 cm⁻¹.
  • Suitable for concentrations between 10 mg/kg and 150 mg/kg; detection outside this range is possible but with reduced precision.
• Analytical Approach
  • Involves comparing the IR spectra of fuel before and after passing through a specialized sorbent cartridge.
  • Partial least squares regression (PLS-1) model is applied for quantification.
  • Additives such as antistatic agents and antioxidants do not interfere due to flow analysis processing.
• Precision and Repeatability
  • Offers repeatable results ideal for operational environments, enabling effective quality control in both central labs and field stations.
• Safety and Compliance
  • Stresses the need for adherence to safety, health, and environmental practices as per relevant regulations.

Applications

ASTM D7797-23 has wide-ranging practical applications within the aviation fuel quality assurance and supply chain management sectors. Key uses include:

• Routine Screening: Ensures that aviation turbine fuel stocks are not contaminated with FAME above regulatory or safety thresholds, especially when fuels are handled in multi-fuel transport infrastructures such as pipelines and cargo tankers.
• Compliance Verification: Supports adherence to international fuel specifications like ASTM D1655 and Defence Standard 91-91, crucial for both civil and military aviation operations.
• Fuel Logistics: Enables fuel suppliers, refineries, and transportation companies to rapidly identify and mitigate FAME contamination before fuel reaches aircraft.
• Quality Assurance in Refineries and Airports: Provides a non-specialist friendly, rapid test for the detection of biodiesel components, reducing delays and risks associated with complex laboratory procedures.

Related Standards

Users and stakeholders of ASTM D7797-23 may also reference the following standards to ensure comprehensive fuel quality processes and compatibility:

• ASTM D1655 – Specification for Aviation Turbine Fuels
• Defence Standard 91-91 – Turbine Fuel, Aviation Kerosine Type, Jet A1
• ASTM D6751 – Specification for Biodiesel Fuel Blend Stock (B100)
• EN 14214 – Automotive Fuels – FAME for Diesel Engines – Requirements and Test Methods
• ASTM D1298, D4052, D4057, D4175, D4177, D6300 – Standards for density, sampling, terminology, and precision in petroleum products
• Energy Institute IP 583 – Equivalent FAME detection method by FA-FTIR

Summary

ASTM D7797-23 provides an efficient, robust, and reliable standard for the rapid screening of FAME in aviation turbine fuel using advanced FA-FTIR technology. Its adoption helps the aviation industry mitigate the risks of biodiesel contamination, comply with regulatory standards, and maintain the highest levels of fuel quality and safety throughout the global supply chain.